Colin Jackson is a world-renowned former Olympic athlete and an inspiring motivational speaker, celebrated for his exceptional achievements in sprinting and hurdling. Known for setting world and European records in the 110m hurdles, Colin has earned 12 gold, eight silver and one bronze medal over his athletic career, including a silver at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. Beyond sport, he is recognised as a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, having come out as gay in 2017. Today, Colin is widely hired as a speaker for corporate and educational events, where he captivates audiences with stories of resilience, excellence, and authenticity.
Colin’s journey began on the track, where his extraordinary speed and technique quickly set him apart. Representing Great Britain and Wales, he broke onto the international scene with a silver medal in the 1988 Olympics and went on to dominate the 110m hurdles throughout the 1990s. In 1993, he set a world record in the event – a record that stood for 27 years – and followed it up with an indoor world record for the 60m hurdles the following year. Colin’s discipline, focus and determination laid the foundation for his success, and even after retiring from athletics in 2003, he continued to influence sport through coaching and mentoring young British talent.
Since stepping off the track, Colin has built a thriving career in television and advocacy. He has been a key part of BBC athletics coverage, co-hosted programmes such as “Born to Win”, and appeared in mainstream entertainment shows like “Strictly Come Dancing” and “Dancing on Ice”. Appointed Chancellor of Wrexham Glyndwr University in 2019, Colin also founded Go Dad Run to raise awareness for men’s health, and serves as International Director of Sport 4 Kids. His contributions to sport and society have been recognised with an MBE, OBE and CBE, as well as being named Men’s Athlete of the Year in 1994.
Colin is regularly hired as a motivational speaker not only for his incredible sporting legacy but for his heartfelt advocacy for inclusion and mental well-being. With lived experience of overcoming fear and stigma surrounding his sexuality, he brings a deeply personal perspective to conversations around identity and resilience. Whether discussing performance mindset or LGBT+ representation, Colin engages audiences with authenticity and warmth, making him a sought-after speaker for organisations committed to excellence and equality.
